The homeowner, Ronald Labonte, 74, was seen leaving his home a few hours before the fire, police said. He is suspected of setting it, investigators said.

Detectives searched for Labonte’s truck, which was found Saturday in the woods near his home.

State police, along with Essex County Sheriff’s deputies and Canaan police, have been searching for the man since, but they have not found him. They suspected he may be carrying a handgun with him.

The search is scheduled to continue through at least Monday.

Labonte is described as being about 6 feet tall and weighing 160 pounds. He is an avid outdoorsman, police said.

Anyone with information about the fire or Labonte’s location is asked to call state police at 802-334-8881. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting “CRIMES” with the keyword VTIPS or online at vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.